Highly Optioned: 1971 Chevrolet Corvette 454 4-Speed

It isn’t that hard to find a nice chrome-bumper C3 Corvette in the current market, but finding one like our feature car is a treat. Not only does its engine bay house a big-block, but its original owner loaded it with some of the most desirable options available. With spotless presentation, it seems to tick most of the right boxes for potential buyers. The seller feels that the time is right for it to find a new home, so they have listed it for sale here on eBay. Located in Los Angeles, California, they have set a BIN of $34,995 with the option to make an offer.

The C3 Corvette is one of the most easily recognizable American classics across the globe. Its styling leaves few enthusiasts in any doubt about what they’re looking at. Some kit car manufacturers have tried to recreate the appearance, but they can never match the real deal. This one presents beautifully in War Bonnet Yellow. The seller admits that the car recently received a repaint in this original shade using a two-stage process, and it is hard to find fault. I initially thought there was a flaw on the front right fender, but I’m sure this is nothing but a reflection. The paint shines magnificently, and while this color is not my favorite offered by Chevrolet in that model year, I wouldn’t object if I found this gem parked in my garage. The fiberglass looks excellent, with no cracks or issues around the bonding strips. The seller claims that it is a “no-hit” body, and this claim is easy to believe. The underside photos reveal a frame that is clean and free from any rust problems, which is hardly surprising given the vehicle’s location. The trim, wheels, trim rings, and center caps shine as impressively as the paint. With flawless glass, this ‘Vette has no cosmetic needs.

Chevrolet didn’t offer a slow alternative in the 1971 Corvette range. Even the entry-level ZQ3 350 could launch the car through the ¼ mile in 15.3 seconds. This ‘Vette’s original owner craved more, ordering the car with the LS5 version of the 454ci big-block. Producing 365hp, it sends its power to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. They also ticked the boxes on the Order Form beside power steering and power brakes. If the base engine made the Corvette fast, the big-block took performance to a higher level. The journey down the ¼ mile for this car should take 14.3 seconds, which remains respectable by today’s standards. While this classic’s engine bay presents well for its age, it is worth noting that the ignition shield is missing. That isn’t the end of the world, but purists may want to address this if they wish to maintain a factory appearance. However, it is not a cheap process, with kits retailing for around $450. Ignoring that potential shortcoming, the news remains positive. The seller indicates that the car drives beautifully, with no squeaks, rattles, or other problems. The impression is that you could fly in and drive this beauty home. With summer on our doorstep, that has to be tempting.

Turning our attention to the interior reveals more impressive presentation. The seats wear Saddle leather trim, showing no evidence of significant wear or physical damage. The seller may have installed a new carpet set because it is close to perfect. There are the usual few marks on the console near the shifter, but the plastic and remaining upholstered surfaces look excellent. The only genuine flaw I can spot is the collapsing speaker grille on the driver’s side of the upper dash pad. It is not uncommon after years of UV exposure, and replacements cost around $430. An aftermarket radio occupies the spot where the factory unit lived, but I can’t see any other additions. For buyers craving luxury touches, this interior delivers. The original owner equipped the Corvette with air conditioning, power windows, and a tilt/telescopic wheel. That list may not seem much by today’s standards, but they remain some of the most desirable buyers seek in the current market.

For potential buyers, this 1971 Corvette offers a lot. It presents beautifully, and it would be hard to fault with the few identified flaws rectified. The drivetrain combination and optional equipment do nothing but increase its desirability. Values took a hit a couple of years ago, but they are bouncing back stronger than ever. Given its overall condition, the BIN on this ‘Vette looks highly competitive. Fifty-nine people are watching the listing, and I won’t be surprised if one of them hits the button on this classic. Would you?